CommScope report uncovers MTDC benefits in data centres

In the complex landscape of global data operations, power availability has emerged as a critical concern, according to a recent report by CommScope. The report focuses on the burgeoning role of multi-tenant data centres (MTDCs) in navigating the challenges faced by the data centre industry.

The data centre market is one that is continuing to expand at a rapid pace, and its reach is not just isolated to the major regions but also here in ANZ. According to recent research from Arizton, they have projected the New Zealand market to amass investments of NZD $2.9 billion by 2028, reflecting a CAGR of 9.23% from 2022 to 2028. New Zealand's unique blend of sustainable energy expertise, enhanced national and international networks, and a commitment to balancing commercial growth with environmental and social considerations makes it a hotspot for global tech interests.

Looking at the Australian market, data centres continue to be opened in the major centres. AppOmni, a SaaS security firm, unveiled a new data centre in Sydney in February 2024, and Digital infrastructure partner STACK Infrastructure, a global developer and operator of data centres, announced the completion of its first Asia Pacific (APAC) data centre, located in Melbourne, in late 2023, just to name a few.

Contrasting the market demand, the report reveals, however, that power supply constraints are increasingly influencing the strategic decisions of data centre operators. CommScope's report argues that MTDCs can play a pivotal role in mitigating these challenges. MTDCs offer a shared space where multiple clients can house their data infrastructure, promoting efficient resource use and reducing the individual burden on power supplies. Facilities like those operated by Digital Realty are strategically located and designed for high efficiency, aligning with the needs of hyperscale and cloud service providers.

The advantages of MTDCs are not just about power efficiency but also about scalability and flexibility in response to geopolitical and demographic shifts. The report highlights how operators are increasingly looking beyond the traditional hotspots in the US and Western Europe to Tier 2 cities across Europe. These locations offer potential cost savings and access to new markets, despite the complexities of differing regulations and languages.

Adapting to the rapid expansion in data demand means embracing not only more energy-efficient practices but also integrating advanced technological and design standards. CommScope points to industry standards like ANSI/TIA-942 in North America and EN-50600 in Europe, which guide the infrastructure of MTDCs to ensure they meet rigorous requirements for energy efficiency, redundancy, and connectivity.

As detailed in CommScope's report, the future of data centres lies in innovative solutions like MTDCs that address both the immediate challenges of power supply and the long-term demands of a digitalising world. By fostering more sustainable and efficient data centre practices, MTDCs are pivotal in supporting the growth of the global digital economy while managing the ecological footprint of our digital age.

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